FOLSOM – The Pops Chorale & Orchestra is rolling out the red carpet to launch its 2025–2026 season in dazzling fashion, presenting Festival of Wonders on Harris Center’s Stage 1 this Saturday, September 27. This Hollywood at Harris gala promises not only unforgettable music, but an immersive evening celebrating the magic of performance, the community’s passion for the arts, and the timeless works of Broadway and Hollywood’s finest composers.
Guests will begin their night with a champagne welcome, fine wines, gourmet offerings, and a red carpet walk into the theater. The festivities include a silent auction and even the chance for one lucky patron to step into the spotlight as guest conductor. From there, the music takes over, with dazzling tributes to Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz—the creative forces behind Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Wicked, Godspell, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Beloved characters come to life on stage, while audience participation and surprise elements keep the evening fresh and unpredictable. Patrons are encouraged to dress to impress, as this is an event designed to sparkle in every way while also supporting the meaningful impact of live performance in the community.
Under the leadership of artistic and musical director Lorin Miller, The Pops Chorale has become a cultural centerpiece across the greater Sacramento area. This 80-voice, auditioned ensemble draws its members from all walks of life, from students to retirees, united by vocal talent and a shared love of music. Performing entirely from memory, the Chorale has earned a reputation for bringing Broadway, Hollywood, and American standards to life with creative staging, choreography, and costumes that turn concerts into fully realized theatrical experiences. Their diverse membership and multi-generational talent make every performance a celebration of both artistry and community.
Members of the Pops Chorale rehearse For Saturdays Festival of Wonders. Folsom Times photo by Bill Sullivan.
Joining them is The Pops Orchestra, a professional ensemble of strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion that features some of the top musicians on the West Coast. Ranging in size from a 12-piece chamber group to a full 40-piece orchestra, the ensemble consistently delivers a sound of recording-level quality. The Chorale and Orchestra share the stage for signature productions throughout the year, including Broadway Pops in May, Holiday Pops in December, and gala-style events like Hollywood at Harris. Together they have built a reputation for producing some of the most dynamic live performances in the region, with their reach extending internationally to tours in Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia.
Much of that acclaim reflects the vision of Miller, now in his 18th season with The Pops. A California native who grew up in Grass Valley, Miller studied music performance and film scoring before beginning a career in Hollywood television production. His background includes solo tours in Europe and Asia, recording his own album, and featured performances with the Sacramento Choral Society and Orchestra. He also co-founded A Gift of the Heart, a Placer County performing arts organization that raises money for local charities. His leadership has guided The Pops into becoming one of the most admired ensembles in Northern California, known not only for their musicianship but for their ability to inspire audiences and build community through music.
A full season of music ahead
While Festival of Wonders opens the season in grand style, The Pops have a full calendar of performances planned at Harris Center. December brings Remember Christmas, a holiday tradition that blends beloved carols with fresh arrangements, choreography, and storytelling in a program that has sold out year after year. In March, A Generation of Jazz will transport audiences to the Big Band era with the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller. The season wraps up in May with American Bandstand, a high-energy tribute to the chart-topping hits of the 1970s, ’80s, ’90s, and beyond, reimagined with the powerful Pops Chorale sound.
Each of these performances reflects the group’s commitment to combining professional-caliber artistry with theatrical innovation and audience engagement. Season packages are available for those who want to experience the entire journey, offering discounted tickets and guaranteed seats.
Festival of Wonders takes place Saturday, September 27 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. VIP guests are welcomed at 3 p.m. for the gala reception, followed by an evening of music and celebration. Tickets are available now through the Harris Center box office at www.harriscenter.net.
To learn more about The Pops Chorale & Orchestra, their season lineup, and ways to support their work, visit www.thepopschorale.com.
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